India

Jharkhand consumer court orders Rs 1.99L payout after Rs 1.09L fridge explodes

A consumer commission in Jharkhand has ruled in favour of a customer who purchased a refrigerator worth Rs 1.09 lakh that developed repeated cooling problems and eventually exploded. The customer sought a replacement from the company, but the manufacturer failed to address the complaints or carry out satisfactory repairs. Finding the company guilty of a deficiency in service, the commission directed it to pay compensation along with litigation costs. The total payout ordered against the company amounts to Rs 1.99 lakh.

Bank Branches to Close on Multiple Dates in October for Holidays

Indian bank branches will remain shut on several dates in October due to national and regional holidays. Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 and Dussehra on October 19 are among the key closure dates affecting multiple states. Additionally, banks will be closed on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, as per standard practice. Customers are advised to plan their branch visits in advance to avoid inconvenience. Digital banking services will remain available for routine transactions during all closure periods.

Dell Foundation pledges $36.6M to expand Austin homeless housing village

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation has committed $36.6 million to expand Community First! Village in Austin, Texas. The funding will support the addition of 127 acres to the existing site, with capacity to house up to 1,900 residents facing chronic homelessness. Infrastructure development is scheduled to begin in 2023 on properties along Hog Eye Road and Burleson Road. The initiative forms part of a wider effort to address the growing need for affordable and permanent housing solutions in the region.

Flydubai Dubai-Tel Aviv flight makes emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after cockpit altercation

A Flydubai flight traveling from Dubai to Tel Aviv was forced to make an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia following a serious incident onboard. Reports suggest a physical altercation between the pilots caused the aircraft to descend rapidly. Israeli fighter jets were scrambled in response to initial fears of a hijacking, though those concerns were subsequently ruled out. Passengers reportedly heard screams and witnessed a violent confrontation inside the cockpit during the episode.

Pilot stabbed, blood in cockpit: Passengers recall harrowing ordeal on flight that nearly crashed

Punjab sign Umesh Yadav as guest player to chase first Ranji title since 1992

The Punjab Cricket Association has signed veteran pacer Umesh Yadav as a guest player for the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season. The 38-year-old will bolster Punjab's pace attack as key bowlers Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar are expected to be on national duty. Punjab are hoping Yadav's red-ball experience will help them end a 34-year wait for a Ranji Trophy title, their last coming in 1992. This marks the first time Punjab have brought in a guest player of Yadav's profile for the domestic tournament.

Gujarat ATS, Coast Guard seize Rs 3,000 cr drugs from Iranian dhow near Lakshadweep

Gujarat's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Indian Coast Guard conducted a major drug bust in the Arabian Sea near Lakshadweep. The joint operation uncovered over 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine concealed aboard an Iranian dhow. The seized narcotics are valued at more than Rs 3,000 crore. Five Pakistani nationals found on the vessel were arrested in connection with the haul. The operation marks a significant strike against drug trafficking networks operating through Indian waters.

Why Your Brain Replays Conversations and When It Becomes Harmful

Mentally revisiting past conversations is a common psychological behaviour that can help people make sense of social interactions and resolve uncertainty. However, when this reflection becomes excessive, it can intensify feelings of social anxiety rather than provide relief. Psychologists note that many people seek reassurance from ambiguous social cues, which can heighten emotional discomfort over time. Research suggests a correlation between prolonged event-rumination and worsening anxiety symptoms. Experts emphasise the importance of distinguishing healthy self-reflection from harmful rumination to maintain better mental well-being.

NYC judge orders fresh notices for pieds-à-terre tax, city appeals ruling

INDIA Bloc's March To Poll Body Office, Big Rally Plan In 'Vote Chori' Push

Teen rejection sparked a 500-student movement connecting youth with elderly

Jiya Joshi's journey into senior care began after the loss of her grandmother, which inspired her to connect with elderly individuals. At age 14, she was initially rejected when she attempted to volunteer at a nursing home. Undeterred, she independently organized visits to seniors, turning her personal initiative into a structured program. This effort grew into Young and Old United, a platform that pairs young people with isolated elderly individuals. The movement has since expanded to over 500 students and has positively impacted thousands of seniors.

Illinois woman allegedly hid mother’s body in freezer for 2 years, took benefits

Delhi Cancer Patient Loses Rs 2 Crore Home and Gold in Cyber Fraud

A Delhi woman undergoing cancer treatment received an unsolicited call on her landline on April 6 from an unknown number. The caller allegedly manipulated her into a sophisticated cyber scam that resulted in devastating financial losses. The victim lost her home worth Rs 2 crore along with a significant amount of gold. The case highlights how cyber fraudsters are increasingly targeting vulnerable individuals, including those dealing with serious health conditions.

Supreme Court Questions UP Police Over FIR Filed Against 'Unknown' Despite Identified Suspect

The Supreme Court sharply criticized Uttar Pradesh Police over a flawed investigation in which an FIR was registered against an 'unknown' person. This occurred despite the complainant stating that he had identified and handed over the accused directly to the police at the scene. The court questioned the credibility of the state police force, asking why all investigations should not simply be transferred to the CBI. The case highlights concerns about accountability and integrity within the UP Police's investigative procedures.

20 African wild dogs return to Zimbabwe park after decades as its ecosystem is restored

Rajinikanth's Iconic Raghavendra Mandapam in Chennai to Be Razed for Hotel

Raghavendra Mandapam, a well-known venue associated with superstar Rajinikanth in Kodambakkam, Chennai, is set to be demolished. The site holds significant sentimental value for the actor's fans and has long been linked to his philanthropic activities. The structure will make way for the construction of a new three-star hotel. The demolition marks the end of an era for a location deeply embedded in Rajinikanth's public legacy.

How the US Holds Leverage Over Iraq Through Oil Revenue Control

Oil accounts for approximately 90% of Iraq's state budget, making it the country's most critical source of income. This heavy reliance on oil gives the United States considerable influence over Iraq's economic and political affairs. Washington's control over these revenues serves as a key instrument of geopolitical leverage. The arrangement underscores the deep financial interdependence between the two countries.

Iran Reviews US Response to Seven-Day Trust-Building Proposal

Iran has received feedback from the United States regarding a proposed seven-day trust-building plan. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is expected to review and discuss the US response in Tehran on Wednesday. The development signals ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries. The trust-building proposal represents an effort to establish a foundation for broader negotiations between Iran and the US.

Crane Runs Over Scooterist's Head in Fatal Hit-and-Run, Driver Absconds

A speeding crane fatally struck a scooter rider in a collision caught on video. The crane's heavy rear wheel ran directly over the victim's head, causing fatal injuries on the spot. The crane driver fled the scene immediately after the incident without stopping to assist. Authorities are investigating the case and efforts are underway to trace the absconding driver.

Nepal Floods: Teachers Mark Missing Students After Deadly Rasuwa Disaster

Devastating floods struck Nepal's Rasuwa district on August 26, leaving multiple students unaccounted for. At Neelakantha Secondary School, teachers have been marking the names of children who have not returned since the disaster. The flood has severely impacted the hard-hit district, with schools among the affected institutions. Teachers continue to grieve as they await news of the missing students.